O’Leary Learning Commons

The first project to emerge from the Feasibility Study was the renovation of the first floor of the O’Leary Library into a campus Learning Commons, awarded to Winter Street Architects. Originally built in the 1970s in the Brutalist architectural style, the building had experienced minimal maintenance and few upgrades over its 40-year lifespan. The challenge for Winter Street Architects was to bring new life into the aging structure and transform it into a vibrant hub for student research and learning.

The design centered on the large, high-ceilinged reading room, whose natural light, open plan, and minimalist character provided a strong foundation for the overall approach. Winter Street Architects collaborated closely with a core group of university stakeholders, holding regular meetings to rapidly develop and refine the design. This process ensured that the needs of both library staff and students were met, while also integrating updated technology and infrastructure essential for a 21st-century academic environment.

Despite tight design and construction deadlines, the team delivered a highly refined plan within just a few months. The resulting design featured a cohesive series of spaces, including offices, computing zones, study rooms, tutoring areas, and informal gathering spaces. Defined pathways, distinctive ceiling treatments, contemporary millwork, and modern lighting were strategically used to organize and articulate the various functional areas within the open environment.